Bill Coelius is a unicorn. He is very much a working actor (you will recognize his face immediately) who is also an intuitive, organized and highly effective teacher. He is one if the most gifted teachers I have had the pleasure to work with. I have taken two classes with Bill: Mindset and Commercials -- and both have been some of the best of my acting career. Don't take either if you are not willing to work hard; Bill gives lots of targeted homework. However, if you are willing to roll up your sleeves and get to work, Bill will gently lead you to be the best actor you can be. Can you tell? I HIGHLY recommend his classes. Do yourself a solid and signup. read more

Bill's commercial class is truly special. He not only delivers the fundamentals of commercial auditions (like script breakdown, slating, etc.), but he covers the more subconscious elements happening in the audition room. Plus his feedback is specific and he's a joy to spend time with. Highly recommend! read more

I am about to write the most meaningful yelp review I have ever written. Seriously. Bill's commercial class is more than just an amazing, informative workshop on how to book commercials. I can say with complete honesty that it is--pound for pound, minute by minute--one of the most brilliant, valuable, and important acting classes I have ever taken. The content of his material is, of course, sound. The structure and delivery are simple, effective, and to the point, but it's the message of his philosophy that carries the deeper, more important lessons. These lessons apply not only to commercial auditions but to all auditions pertaining to a performer, in fact--to any job interview, meeting, or introduction. His core idea is to come from a place of pure service: rather than approaching people and situations from a place of want, need, fear, or scarcity, you instead stand firm in compassion, joy, and the authentically-asked question, "How can I help?" Bill has a gift to make everyone in the room feel safe. A room of insecure actors will drop their guard within ten minutes of his presence. He is also able to identify immediately how we hold ourselves back as actors; one little comment, given in the form of a loving observation--changes not only the actor's work in the moment--you can see the revelation as a lightbulb in the actor's eye, in the softening of their demeanor. I have witnessed breakthroughs in others, and many within myself. Profound shifts, all in a matter of hours. I hope you take his class: his teachings will not only transform your auditions, work, and approach--they can potentially change the landscape of our industry. No exaggeration. Please give him my fond regards when you take his class! read more

Ok, so I needed a list. Bill Colius gave me one. 101 things that he learned as he navigated the Commercial maze. I read it before every audition. Bill came recommended by Ben Davis of Ivana Chubbuck Studios. Bill and Ben were acting colleagues in New York. Bill lives up to Ben's endorsement. His class: 1) Is the most reasonably prices of any study you'll do in Hollywood 2) Has bite size chunks of information that are easily understood 3) Gives you exercises that hone your skills so you are relaxed and perform naturally in "The Room" 4) Shows you on camera feedback to see what the auditors will see 5) Is a safe place to explore your craft as an actor Bill is an exceptional teacher who genuinely cares that you learn. read more

Bill is GREAT! His technique to approaching commercial acting is top notch. Bill has you paying attention to detail in a way that allows you to be present. The goal is not perfection but being yourself and bringing your energy to the commercial audition process. Most importantly how to reduce the collective fear that you (the actor), the CDs, and directors have in maintaining the clients objectives. Bill's motto "come in service" allows you to continously check in during the audition and not leave you in your head. He's giving you the techniques that will set you apart as a professional that the director/session runner can collaborate with during the process; allowing you to build a rapport. After taking level 1 I had several callbacks and after recently completing level 2 I had a national audition that lead to a booking (off of the first tape). I reach out to Bill with questions and he continues to be a positive resource with quick feedback. If you haven't figured it out by now, I am a fan of Bill Coelius and his Commercial Acting 101 techniques. TAKE HIS CLASS! read more

Bill has been (by far) the most helpful when it comes to going confidently into auditions. Through his teachings you actually get to take the focus off of yourself and just have fun. The classes are small and everyone gets to work. You get to learn from an actor that constantly works and you get to learn from his years of what works...and what doesn't work : ) He's the best. read more

I took Bill's Commercial Acting 101 class through the Actors Key in Burbank, and I was not disappointed. Not only does Bill give you tips, tricks and insight from the perspective of a successful commercial actor, he does it in such a clear and friendly way that it is easy both to process in class, and then to practice on your own. I've taken other commercial acting workshops and found them wanting, often despite hefty sticker prices that dwarf Bill's...wish I had known about him sooner and saved myself some money and aggravation. I also found Bill to be a great resource outside the classroom...he never failed to answer an email or respond to a question both quickly and thoughtfully. Bill's techniques have helped me be more comfortable and confident in my commercial auditions, and they can do the same for you! read more

The free workshop lead me to take the four week class. I'm so glad that I did. I found the class room to have a calm atmosphere where students felt free to ask questions and interact without being judged or pushed that there were time constraints. The interaction between student and teacher was excellent. Bill was able to listen and understand. Answering questions and teaching techniques was done with calmness and caring. Not that it was an easy ride. The students were there to learn. And they had to apply what was being taught, or nothing would be of benefit. And Bill had things to teach. And he stayed true to just that: teach. A valuable trick that was taught, I was able to apply to my recent photo shoot and it made all the difference to me and to the people in the room. How do you get rid of the tension in the room? You need to take Bill's class to find out the trick. I would recommend this class to beginners as well as seasoned performers. There is always room to learn and to grow. If you take the free workshop, please do yourself a favor and take the classes that follow. read more

I've been to a few commercial acting workshop in L.A.; but, this one, by far, is one of the best. Being a CURRENT and prolific working actor (at the day of the workshop, he had booked his 49th National commercial), Bill is able to put himself in our shoes while giving sage-like advise to his students. Though the steps seem numerous (there are 101 of them); they are simple and digestible. Be prepared to work and see yourself in a new light. Though his class is geared towards commercials, it can easily be applied to theatrical/film/TV work. I saw immediate results, not only in audition settings; but in my life, too. Highly recommend! read more

Wow, where to begin about Bill Coelius? I was introduced to Bill's classes by a top LA acting coach and Broadway actor, whom I trust. So, having heard from him that Bill was perhaps the best commercial acting coach in Los Angeles (and he's in New York FYI...) AND this could also help my theatrical auditions, I thought I would give Bill's class a go. I joined Bill's class never having been on a commercial audition, really not knowing much about the process other than what I've heard from actors. I was welcomed by Bill to my first class with a level of care and respect that immediately made me feel at ease. The class size was on the smaller side, so those of you with nerves have no fear. I also recognized Bill immediately from the 50 and counting national TV spots he has booked. At first, I had my guard up just a bit, wondering what to expect. When Bill dove into his teaching, giving a quick overview of his process in a few minutes, all guards came down and I knew I was in the space of a teacher who knew what he was talking about, had great integrity, and was truly here to help. The secret sauce of his teaching is based on a timeless truth that all people could benefit from by implementing into their daily lives. It just happens to help you book roles as well! Importantly, he puts this timeless truth into clear, concrete, and actionable steps that you get to practice putting to use in on-film class sessions. So back to my experience...after finishing my sessions in his 101 class, I am confident and secure in auditions, can focus more clearly on my work, and look forward to auditions now, rather that fearing them. Bill is truly great and a wonderful dude. You'll feel like friends with him from the moment you meet him. I recommend signing up with Bill for his Commercial Acting 101 Class to find out what this special sauce is that you will benefit from. read more

I was very fortunate to be included in the 3rd session of the Career Academy after taking a fantastic commercial acting class with Bill Coelius. The Career Academy was exactly what I had been looking for in the realm of taking my acting career to the next level. The syllabus covered every facet of the business side of acting: how to find the right headshot photographer, what to expect when getting headshots taken and how to prepare for them, what to include in a highlight reel and audition taster, how to find and network with an agent. The guest Q&A's with working actors, agents, writers and producers were incredibly insightful to help prepare for the realities of auditioning and working on a set. If you are looking for a professional course in the business side of acting - this is it! Bill creates a nurturing environment where each actor can learn and share together, celebrating each other's wins and sharing insightful experiences of working on a set. Each of the "accountability" meetings actually do hold each individual accountable - prior to starting I had not set up my iMDB page, audition tasters or reel, and now have a very professional looking page which highlights all of my work. Bill even coached me on networking with my agent and we are now speaking on a regular basis! I am so thrilled to have been able to participate in this course as it has provided my acting career with a tremendous boost I would not have received otherwise. If you are thinking about it, I can't recommend it enough - sign up for the Career Academy today!!! read more

PHE.NOMENAL. He knows just about everything there is to know about commercial auditions, having booked over 50 national spots himself! He LOVES teaching and is good at it! Worth every penny! I took 101 and had an absolute blast, and learned SO MUCH! A teacher and actor who cares about how you do and is forthcoming with every piece of knowledge he's ever know! THANKS BILL! read more

I credit Bill and his holistic approach to teaching acting with me landing my first commercial agent. One hundred percent. Bill's teaching technique has given me confidence from check-in to "thank you." I could feel the energy change in every audition I walked into since taking his class because I know I'm know longer there for a job, I'm there to help! In addition to consistently landing callbacks for the jobs I've been right for, I booked a print job thanks to Bill's instruction. Can't recommend Bill highly enough. I took his three-level course and am glad I did! read more

Wow! This class was so incredible! It was very well-formatted, easily understood, and the information was so incredibly helpful! I feel so much better prepared for my future auditions! Bill was such a nice guy and an amazing educator. He kept my interest the whole time, and it was very clear that he was passionate about what he was teaching. I hope for the opportunity to take more classes with him in the future. read more

Just finished my first audition since taking Bill's 101 class. Wow! What a difference! I have been at this seven years and I can truly say I have never felt so relaxed, so confident as I did just now. Bill prepared me from the sign-in to the slate, to knowing what to ask or not ask when I began. I knew what to do every second I was in the room. You know I would give more stars if I could. Ha! But seriously, in a town with a ton of classes and opportunities for training, if you are getting commercial auditions, consider Bill's class. Two sessions. Small groups. Serious fun. read more

Holy canoli! I had the wonderful opportunity to take both Commercial Acting 101 and 102 and I am finding it very hard to encapsulate in words just how grateful I am. I signed up for the workshop after two actresses I greatly admire said that working with Bill had "revolutionized the way they worked" in all facets of their careers. He will help you re-wire your brain in a way that - put simply -makes you a better actor. Period. You will be more versatile, more present, more interested, and more cast-able. His technique really does create results. I had to run off to an audition mid-workshop on the second day and my experience in the audition room was completely alien to precious auditions I had endured. I was curious, not fearful. It was actually fun! I promise it will blow your mind! read more

Couldn't recommend more! Information that will set you up for success and being confident. The knowledge you gain far exceeds the price you pay, seriously! Would recommend his classes to anyone who's serious about booking more Commercials. read more

Bill Coelius is amazing! I feel so charged with the tools and techniques he armored us with. And I now know, entering every audition and situation with pure joy, will alleviate fear and stress, not only for myself, but also subconsciously for everyone else in the room. It's a small class-size, judgment free, so you feel safe. We all make mistakes, and have made mistakes, and Bill let us know it was okay, because it's all a learning process, and we will all get better with time, practice and patience. It's always good working with someone who knows the mechanisms of the industry machine, as well as the experiences and mindset of all us pursuing and living our dreams. He's passionate, compassionate, and understanding of what we all go through, and helped us all see the subconscious tics, quirks, and energy that we put out, that the camera picks up, that unbeknownst to us, maybe costing us jobs. It's really helped me see how others may view me, and what energy I may unintentionally or not be putting outward. Thanks so much, Bill! I feel better and stronger, and ready to use what I learned, to book my next gig. :-) read more

Bill's commercial acting class is a great opportunity for any actor in LA. The technique he teaches you and the exercises you walk away with are helpful not only for the purpose of acting, but for personal growth as well. I felt honored to be learning from his experience. I walked out of his class not only feeling less fearful, but positively joyous and excited to move forward in my career with his lessons! A couple other things that I loved: -The class sizes are small, meaning there is ample time for work and feedback within the lectures. -The environment is very cozy and bright. I will be moving on to level two and I hope more people take this opportunity! read more

Had a great experience with Bill's commercial acting 101 Class. Bill and his class helped to remind me and increase my awareness of utilizing the practice of service both in and outside the audition room. This alone was worth the price of admission. Also, helpful were the visuals (on camera) you provided to guide us in seeing how fear narrows our focus at some of the most inopportune times. Thanks a million for shining a light on some of the cracks and crevices of our life that can really make an enormous difference. read more

After a year of hearing about this absolute gentleman, I was finally privileged enough to take his class. Bill provides a great education, loaded with humor. I finally know who I'm talking to when I look into the camera. Thank you, Bill! read more

Ok seriously, stop looking any further for a commercial acting coach/class. I have taken SCORES of classes and I learned more in the first hour of his class than I did in all my other classes combined. His technique works with the whole person. What is so great about his technique is that while he works on the whole person body and mind he gives you tangible steps to increase your chances of callbacks and bookings. You will immediately know WHY he has booked 50 national network commercials and you will be thrilled to learn all his trade secrets. You will walk away, as I did, kicking yourself that you did not find him LONG ago. His workshops are worth every penny and the best investment you can make in your commercial or acting career. read more

Bill is a refreshing teacher, who clearly lives by the tenants he espouses. To put it simply: he is there to help you, and help you he does. He is kind, sincere, and very direct. He is able to encapsulate his hard won lessons from his own experiences into simple, easy to remember language. It's material that I will be practicing for a lifetime, in acting and in every area of my life. He has reminded me of what's important, and how to be a consummate professional. His class is empowering. He takes an art form that is wrought with pitfalls, and breaks it into the simplest of components. You can't go wrong. He's a great guy, an excellent teacher, and well worth the money for the reasonably priced class he offers. He is there at your service, and he gets right to the point. If you show up and pay attention, you will learn a whole lot. As a teacher myself, he has made me want to be a better teacher as well as actor. Also... he's a working actor (i hate to use that term, but you know what I mean). He currently works as an actor. He's not a teacher who used to act. He's an actor generous enough of spirit to help as many other actors as he can. The best kept secret in town. read more

I took one of Bill's Commercial Acting 101 classes through Anthony Meindl's Actor Workshop. As the grandson, son, and brother of a teacher-- along with having briefly taught at a university myself-- I can say with the utmost of confidence that this son of a successful commercial actor has got the gift! Bill's ability to capture, connect, and share his insights with the class was absolutely staggering. To cite just one among numerous examples, at one point he was able to suss out that my Icelandic classmate had issues with his [own] name just from the SUBTLEST expression of combativeness on his face while doing his slate! This guy is nothing short of a Jedi master of the nuances of the craft! I feel very lucky to have taken his class. It has inspired great confidence in the school as a whole-- I'm looking forward to checking out some of the other instructors. I've already booked a spot for the second class in his series and can't wait to put some of the knowledge he imparted to the test at my next audition. Bill's message of service is a positive one and may be just the antidote to the narcissism that is all too common in the industry, particularly among my fellow millenials. As a newbie to acting, it was really gratifying to have this class affirm that if you're paying attention to "your pictures" (that's a Bill-ism, it'll make sense after you take the class) acting can actually aid in your personal growth. The best part is that I know he's not just preaching it out of altruism; it's both a way of life and a method that yields results. That or he's just one hell of an actor lol! Regardless, he is doing his part to make Hollywood a better place. That's not something you see every day and he deserves to be commended for it. I do so wholeheartedly. read more

Bill is AMAZING! He has a POSITIVE approach to a feared profession. I highly recommend this class to EVERYONE! Even if your not an actor you will walk away with advice that you can use in your personal life!!! A MUST CLASS for all levels: Beginners, Amateurs, and Professionals! read more

Just took Commercial Acting 101 and WOW. I have to say I was blown away. I feel like I was booking off my personality and getting lucky. Now I feel I am armed with the tools to be a professional consistently booking commercial actor. Throughout the course all my previous auditions came up and I could see what I did right and wrong. It's a relief to have a wash, rinse repeatable process instead of just winging it on a hope and a prayer. Bill is humble and a patient and thorough teacher. I walked out of that class with spiritual tools as well I am using in my relationship and it's already working. THANK YOU THANK YOU! read more

I had grown tired of feeling that awful mix of fear/anxiety/dread in the commercial audition room. I was also tired of feeling frustrated as to why there was such an incredible amount of tension and lack of even a trace of fun involved for both sides of the camera. I decided to look for help. I didn't know much about Bill's workshop before signing up but because he is a working actor and has spent years auditioning and booking, I figured it would be a good place to start...to just ask "Seriously, what is the deal with commercial auditions?" . His class turned out to be just what I was looking for. It kinda felt like therapy (the good kind). Not a minute was wasted. We got right to it and there I was finally being able to get answers to things that I had been wondering about for years. He provides practical hands-on insight into each step of the "booking a job" process and tips for after you book. I left his class feeling heard, equipped with new knowledge and inspired. Bottom line: Bill's class is empowering. But my #1 favorite thing about taking his class was that he treated each person in the room with kindness and respect. read more

I took a free intro workshop with Bill Coelius and was so inspired I decided to enroll in his commercial acting 101 class. The class far exceeded my expectations! I have taken commercial classes before and have never encountered the same approach and technique that Bill taught me. Even after just doing the workshop I started to book more. His technique and entire process is truly unique and honestly a refreshing approach. Bill keeps the classes small so you get a lot of one on one attention. It definitely is a lot of information but he thoroughly explains everything. He teaches you 101 things you need to know before you commercial auditions, all of which are based off of his own mistakes and experiences. Bill have book 49 national spots so he really does know what he's talking about. You do on camera work and evaluation. He makes the classroom environment very comfortable. Not only is he very kind but he's a lot of fun too, we had many laughs in the class and his stories are great. He makes the class very enjoyable. His approach is innovative and the tools he supplies you with can be applied to other types of auditions too. You go home with a bunch of exercises to do in order to perfect your audition. Trust me if you do the exercises and what he recommends you will start to book. If you are looking to take a commercial class definitely try Bills, it is affordable and extremely valuable. :) read more

I have now completed up through level 3. Amazing. Bill is great and the program is designed to really get what you need into your bones instead of just in your head. I would recommend this to anyone looking to do commercials anywhere. I have since booked a bunch of spots and one big campaign I'm very proud of. I'm ready for more! read more

Bill's perspective and technique will make you view auditioning completely differently. It makes you command presence and stand out. My very first commercial audition after his class I booked. The practice of this technique makes you feel at ease and capable of seeing auditioning from the casting directors point of view. It may quite possibly make you view yourself and your capabilities in a new light. I will definitely be continuing classes with him. read more

If you want to learn how to professionally book work consistently as an actor in a major market like Los Angeles or New York a.k.a. make money acting- this class will teach you how to do that. It is a class in how to truly be a "working actor". It teaches you the necessary technique and tools you need to breakdown the material for your commercial auditions but also the professional skill set to book the job! No other audition class I've taken has taught this essential "mindset of the professional" other than when I was working as a crew member on an actual TV set - no other class teaches this stuff! Bill's techniques are powerful yet simple. He empowers the actor! He gives you everything you need - everything required to book commercials as well as theatrical work! He can give you what you need to work as a professional in the entertainment industry and actually work consistently - I cannot urge you enough to invest in yourself and in his class. I want to work with actor's on set and in audition rooms who have learned Bill's tricks! I just completed Bill's Commercial 101 class ( Level One) and (took the next day) Level Two class in Los Angeles- he's THAT great. I'm already using what I've learned in my work and life! Before finding Bill Coelius I had zero confidence in my ability to work and make money in commercials. After taking Bill's class I am now pursuing commercials and commercial representation! I am confident in my ability to book. Thank you Bill for sharing your approach to the work! The skills and wisdom you have shared with me have completely shifted my deserving power. Bill is unique from any acting teacher I've encountered as he comes from a place of "how can I serve" - a place of "service" -- hallmarks of how to be a professional. He teaches that! Your generosity as a teacher, actor and person are unmatched Bill! I am so grateful - thank you again Bill! Can't wait to continue to study with you! See you on set! Goldstars, Cait Mathis Los Angeles SAG-AFTRA @caitmathis www.caitmathis.com read more

A friend of mine recommended Bill's class and OMG this is the kind of information and techniques I've been trying to find! What's unique about Bill's class compared to say, the class I took at Alyson Horn (which was informative but honestly not a great value for what I learned), is that Bill really demystifies what works in the room and gives you legitimate tools to book, all rooted in a really positive psychology that's not going to make you feel like you have to contort into the perfect commercial audition robot. It's all about being yourself and being in service. This class truly exceeded my expectations and I'm so grateful! read more

I have taken Bill's Commercial Acting 101 and 102, and I can safely say Bill is the best commercial acting teacher out there. I have had many, many teachers over my ten years as an actor, but none have been as humble, gracious, compassionate, supportive and knowledgeable as Bill. Especially when it comes to commercials. He (comprehensively) guides you through the ENTIRE process of commercial acting so that there is nothing left to chance. You know what you're doing in every moment of the audition, callback and on set. More importantly, the foundation of his class is based on something he calls, "service." Service to others, and service to yourself, as a means of relieving yourself from the seemingly paralyzing fear that comes when you walk into the audition room. We all know that fear, and Bill helps you conquer it in a way that makes you feel like you could walk into a room with Meryl Streep or Robert De Niro, and book the job. read more

Bill teaches in a very noble way, his approach and technique comes from a loving place and it honestly made me think why should I fear ANYTHING!?!? I just wish Bill had on going classes, he really teaches you to look at this crazy industry in a way that's loving, and selfless. We are so focused on "I want this job, that job", he will show you how to change that fear driven thought (pictures) Like I said I wish I could be taught by him every week! Thanks Bill :) read more

I went on a free one hour workshop on Sunday and I loved Bill's presence that pulled me out of my negative thinking and he gave very important keys. I was the first one in line to sign up for the upcoming workshop on Tuesday and it was yesterday! I definitely recommend this class, there is a lot of information to digest , a lot of homework but you come out of it and you know how to get better, i think this is the most important. The workshop is fulfilled of positive energy, we were laughing all the time and the greatest thing is that Bill is there for you! Grateful! P.s. This I wrote 11 months ago Part 2: In January I took level 2 and in February I was signed with an amazing agent, in April I had a huge call back , we were only 3 left for a national commercial, in June I booked one !!! If you are looking for a place to work on your craft, this is the best place! Invest in yourself and you will see how the universe answers you. And the most important in to be service "how can I help?" With true intention it changes everything around you. This action based on love and not fear. Good luck to you fellows! Much love read more

I cannot stress enough how much I LOVED the 101 class. I just took it in New York last weekend and it was a real game changer. Not only is Bill warm and welcoming from the second you walk in, but he creates an atmosphere that is incredibly supportive. It also helped that the class size was small enough that we each got ample time to work. I learned secrets from Bill that will completely change and improve my auditions that I never would have thought of before. This class was an incredible experience and I can't wait to take 102! Thank you so much, Bill! read more

I took Commercials 101 in New York last fall. Using what I learned in that class, I booked my first commercial. Bill is so encouraging and supportive. I'm so grateful for the technique I learned from Bill, but what I'm even more thankful for is getting to learn about Bill's perspective & philosophy. It's an outlook based on service & community that can not only be applied to commercial acting, but also to the business of acting and even to life. I would highly recommend this class to new & highly experienced actors. read more

What can I say?! I love Bill Coelius!! He is just fantastic! His energy, his enthusiasm, his care and attention, his generosity of spirit and downright love for actors, along with his huge desire for you to succeed and do well is rare. I learned so much from him not just for commercial auditions but for the whole audition process and actually for life too! He creates a lovely safe place in which to work and you just have so much fun in the class. I cannot recommend him more highly :) read more

I don't care if you've never auditioned for commercials in your life or if you've booked a ton-this class is a must take for all actors! It's a whirlwind of information, so come prepared with pen and paper. I took the one day workshop, but probably would have preferred splitting it between two days as I think my brain exploded around hour 4. Also, note that while Bill is going to arm you with 101 tools to make you insanely successful, the work is still going to be up to you, so following his advice to keep up with the exercises is key. Don't be lazy, folks. You know who you are. read more

If you have not yet taken Bill's class then you are truly missing out! He provides you with the tools and mentality to go into a room and stand out! The best part is that he is currently a working actor and he has booked over 50 National spots so he is giving information that is not outdated and he is giving his students the skills to have a better audition experience and enjoy auditioning in general! Not to mention what an amazing and kind person he is! read more